Paper One: Learning to play, playing to learn: Using electronic games as educational tools. Paper Two: What's a journal like you doing in a class like this?: writing in mathematics class. Paper Three: An introduction to ethnomathematics

Searwar, Nicole (1998) Paper One: Learning to play, playing to learn: Using electronic games as educational tools. Paper Two: What's a journal like you doing in a class like this?: writing in mathematics class. Paper Three: An introduction to ethnomathematics. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

[English] PDF (Migrated (PDF/A Conversion) from original format: (application/pdf)) - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. Download (12MB) [English] PDF - Accepted Version Available under License - The author retains copyright ownership and moral rights in this thesis. Neither the thesis nor substantial extracts from it may be printed or otherwise reproduced without the author's permission. (Original Version)

Abstract

The first paper of this folio examines the use of electronic games as educational tools. A psychological view of why kids prefer certain video games is given. The research indicates that goals play an important role in the popularity and educational effectiveness of electronic games. This report also examines some of the benefits and detriments of using electronic games for educational purposes. Finally, existing educational practices are analyzed and the focus turns to how we can use what we learn from and about electronic games to enhance and invigorate our everyday teaching techniques. -- The second paper in this folio reports on the importance of journal writing in the mathematics classroom. The relationships among writing in mathematics class, communication, comprehension, problem-solving and mathematics anxiety are explored. This paper also presents some practical ideas for the implementation of journals in the mathematics classroom. The topics of what to write and when to write are discussed in depth. The benefits of journal writing for the teachers' and students' mathematical experiences are also addressed. -- The third paper in this folio is an introduction of the field of ethnomathematics to the mathematics educator. The field of ethnomathematics is fairly new, yet is extremely diverse. In an effort to comprehend ethnomathematics, a retrospective view is taken and the origin of ethnomathematics is explored. It is seen that the definition of ethnomathematics is dependent on several variables. In order to further understand this area of research, a model of classification for ethnomathematic studies is given. Also, the profession of ethnomathematician is defined, in so much as a 'definition' can be stated and is relevant. Finally, some thought is given to the more practical aspects of ethnomathematics in today's classrooms.

Actions (login required)

View Item